Governor Signs $116.5B State Budget
On June 12, Governor DeSantis signed the $116.5B state budget for 2024-2025, highlighting education, infrastructure, and conservation. Key investments include Everglades restoration and water quality improvements.
Volume 46, Number 4
Florida’s Environmental News Source of Record focused on news content of interest to the environmental community.
SPECIFIER PUBLISHING LLC
Publisher
Editor-In-Chief
Patrick Gillespie
Staff Writers
BLANCHE HARDY, PG
Senior Correspondent
LINA ALFIERI STERN
MBA, MSRED, LEED Green Associate
Contributing Writers and
Columnists
WILL WATTS
Florida Department of
Transportation
RYAN MATTHEWS
Gray Robinson
CRISSY MEHLE
WSP
DANIELLE FITZPATRICK
St. Johns River Water
Management District
NICHOLAS MUZIA
Sea & Shoreline
PEPPER UCHINO
Florida Shore & Beach
Preservation Association
HERSCHEL T. VINYARD
Adams and Reese
VICTORIA BRUCE
The Mitigation Banking
Group
SEAN PARKS
Lake County Commissioner
JERRY MALLAMS
Southwest Florida Water
Management District
KEYNA CORY
Florida Recycling
Partnership Foundation
On June 12, Governor DeSantis signed the $116.5B state budget for 2024-2025, highlighting education, infrastructure, and conservation. Key investments include Everglades restoration and water quality improvements.
The Marco Island EPSS offers an exceptional conference experience with expert speakers, engaging sessions, and a unique family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy the scenic beaches, top-notch facilities, and opportunities to connect with state and federal regulators.
Earlier this year, officials celebrated the completion of the Wekiva Parkway, emphasizing the unprecedented steps taken to protect the Wekiva River’s natural resources. The project, a partnership between FDOT and the Central Florida Expressway Authority, connects State Road 429 to Interstate 4 while preserving the surrounding environment.
Florida A&M University, U.S. Sugar, and Tuskegee University are collaborating to study the environmental and economic impacts of sugarcane farming in South Florida. This effort aims to improve sustainable agriculture practices in the region by analyzing sugarcane burning methods and their effects on the environment and local communities.
Urban stream syndrome is causing ecological degradation in our streams and creeks due to urban development. Learn how local agencies and communities can help restore these natural systems.
Stay updated on key initiatives around the Gulf, from Texas’ natural gas power plants and Louisiana’s port projects to Mississippi’s flood control plans and Alabama’s water system funding.
Florida is home to many conferences. Here are a few that may be of interest to Specifier readers.
The St. Johns River Water Management District’s Basin Management Program divides its jurisdiction into four basins, enhancing water protection with customized approaches and collaborative efforts.
Federal officials are raising alarms over cyber threats targeting water utilities. Recent warnings from the EPA highlight the growing frequency and severity of these attacks, urging utilities to bolster cybersecurity measures to protect drinking water.
Florida Notes provides the latest updates on state developments, including new infrastructure projects, environmental initiatives, and advancements in technology aimed at improving community resilience and sustainability.
Kenneth “Bud” Howard of the Loxahatchee River District monitors wastewater to track infectious diseases like COVID-19. This initiative offers real-time data and enhances public health surveillance.
Shawn Hamilton, Florida DEP Secretary, will keynote the 2024 Florida Environmental Permitting Summer School. With over 20 years of experience, Hamilton will discuss state environmental protection efforts and key initiatives.
Alliance Dairies in Gilchrist County, Florida, focuses on sustainable farming and environmental stewardship. Partnering with the Suwannee River Water Management District, they implement advanced water management and recycling practices to protect natural resources.
The City of Orlando has raised its stormwater utility fees to fund essential infrastructure projects. This increase addresses the growing needs due to population growth and severe storm events, ensuring the maintenance and improvement of the stormwater system.
Nature-based solutions combine natural and engineered features to address environmental challenges. The Titusville Causeway project showcases how these solutions create resilient and interdependent habitats, improving ecosystems and infrastructure.
Florida’s beaches, vital for the environment and economy, face erosion challenges. Learn about state efforts and federal policy impacts on beach preservation, and the urgent need for legislative action to protect these natural treasures.
The Sackett v. EPA decision limits Clean Water Act jurisdiction to wetlands “indistinguishable” from regulated waters. Federal agencies face challenges in implementing this ruling, affecting environmental policy and landowner rights.
The WOTUS decision has upended Florida’s Section 404 permitting process, leading to significant delays for projects ranging from Everglades restoration to residential housing. Businesses now face uncertainty and must restart the permitting process with the USACE.
Lake County tackles the septic tank problem by implementing Distributed Wastewater Treatment systems. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective solution to nutrient pollution, ensuring cleaner lakes and rivers in Florida.
Experts are predicting an active 2024 hurricane season, with increased storm activity anticipated. Residents are advised to prepare for potential hurricanes and stay informed about safety measures and emergency plans.
The Doctors Lake Phosphorus Elimination System, a collaboration between St. Johns River Water Management District and SWIG, has removed over 6,400 pounds of phosphorus and nearly 54% of total nitrogen from treated wastewater, improving water quality in Clay County.
In this Q&A article, experts share vital information on hurricane preparedness. Discover practical tips and strategies to safeguard your home and loved ones, ensuring you stay safe during hurricane season.
Start a successful recycling program at your workplace by designating a Recycling Champion, conducting a waste audit, and educating employees. Learn tips on bin placement, signage, and creating a recycling culture for a sustainable office environment.
Explore key updates and insights on a range of topics in our “In Other News” segment. Get the latest information on environmental initiatives, business strategies, and community developments to stay informed and engaged.
Volume 46, Number 4
Florida’s Environmental News Source of Record focused on news content of interest to the environmental community.
SPECIFIER PUBLISHING LLC
Publisher
Editor-In-Chief
Patrick Gillespie
Staff Writers
BLANCHE HARDY, PG
Senior Correspondent
LINA ALFIERI STERN
MBA, MSRED, LEED Green Associate
Contributing Writers and
Columnists
WILL WATTS
Florida Department of
Transportation
RYAN MATTHEWS
Gray Robinson
CRISSY MEHLE
WSP
DANIELLE FITZPATRICK
St. Johns River Water
Management District
NICHOLAS MUZIA
Sea & Shoreline
PEPPER UCHINO
Florida Shore & Beach
Preservation Association
HERSCHEL T. VINYARD
Adams and Reese
VICTORIA BRUCE
The Mitigation Banking
Group
SEAN PARKS
Lake County Commissioner
JERRY MALLAMS
Southwest Florida Water
Management District
KEYNA CORY
Florida Recycling
Partnership Foundation
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